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Reflexology

Reflexology is a complementary, biological, integrative health science, through which pressure is applied to reflex areas, formed by 7,200 nerve endings in each hand, foot, and ear, encouraging improved instruction to each and every single gland, organ and part of the body, thus persuading the body to biologically correct, strengthen, and reinforce itself, to reach balance, normalization, and homeostasis.

Specific thumb, finger and hand techniques are used and it is based on a system of zones and reflex areas. Pressure sensors in the feet and hands are a part of the body's reflexive response that makes possible the "fight or flight" reaction to danger. Feet ready to flee and hands ready to fight communicate with the body's internal organs to do what it needs to do. The sudden adrenal surge that enables a person to lift a car is an example of this reaction. Reflexology taps into this reflex network, providing an exercise of pressure sensors and thus the internal organs to which they are inextricably tied. Examples of disorders that can be helped with reflexology are:

• Stress and stress-related conditions

• Tension headaches

• Digestive disorders

• Arthritis

• Insomnia

• Hormonal imbalances

• Sports injuries

• Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• Digestive problems, such as constipation

• Back pain

Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced this concept of "zone therapy" in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed this zone theory in the 1930's into what is now knows as reflexology. Reflexology is also be used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy.

 

Sources:http://altmedicine.about.com/od/therapiesfromrtoz/a/Reflexology.htm, http://www.reflexology.net/home.htm